Set against New England’s most dramatic mountain peaks, Omni Mount Washington Resort offers beautiful venues to celebrate your special day. Imagine your ceremony on the rooftop Jewell Terrace before celebrating in one of the elegant ballrooms. Or be among the first to say “I do” at the new mountaintop Crystal Hills event venue. We have the perfect setting for your perfect day.
OmniHotels.com/MountWashington (603)278-8813
Nashua Country Club hosts only one wedding at a time, so all the attention is on you. We also offer outdoor ceremonies and are happy to host your wedding shower and rehearsal dinner.
“You do
A tradition of excellence and personalized service spanning 100 years. A dedicated team of experienced wedding professionals will work to ensure your every dream becomes a reality.
New Hampshire Magazine’s BRIDE® is published by Yankee Publishing, Inc., 250 Commercial Street, Suite 4014, Manchester, NH 03101, (603) 624-1442. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without the written permission of the publisher is prohibited. The publisher assumes no responsibility for any mistakes in advertisements or editorial. Statements/opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect or represent those of this publication or its officers. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication, Yankee Publishing, Inc.: New Hampshire Magazine’s BRIDE® disclaims all responsibility for omissions and errors. New Hampshire Magazine’s BRIDE® is published twice a year in March and October.
PRINTED IN NEW HAMPSHIRE
NEW HAMPSHIRE GROU P An Employee-Owned Company
PHOTO FREEBIRD Photography
PHOTO by Kelsey Converse Photography
There’s nothing quite like a spring or summer wedding. From the bright, lively colors to elegant garden-inspired details to cascading blooms, it’s the perfect time of year to embrace the spirit of new beginnings and the season’s warmer weather as they set the tone for your special day.
Amid the vibrancy of color and life that bursts through the pages of this Spring/ Summer issue, you’ll find an abundance of ideas and fresh inspiration for the coming season from “Things We Love” on page 12 and a collection of Real New Hampshire Weddings starting on page 23. A brand new Q&A-style department titled “Meet the Experts” awaits you on page 35, where local industry pros give their tips, tricks and thoughtful guidance on their own unique facet of the wedding planning process. If you’re looking for a charming New England garden party with luxurious details, a botanical-inspired cake, a whimsical fit-and-flare gown and a stylish champagne wall, check out the “Luxury in Full Bloom” styled shoot on page 46.
We love being able to soak in that just-said-yes bliss with you (and maybe toast a blueberry tonic mocktail or two, too). Like the wedding fairy godmother you didn’t know you needed, we are here to help you create and complete your to-do list, slip into the gown of your dreams, and tenderly hold your hand as you walk down the aisle into your own happily ever after.
Until next time …
Emily Heidt Editor
P.S. We’re looking for weddings to feature in our Fall/Winter 2023 issue of BRIDE. Interested? Visit nhmagazine.com/bride to submit your wedding.
Find more inspiration at nhmagazine.com/bride, with extra photos, tips, links to local resources, Real Weddings and more.
PHOTO BY SHARETHESOUL PHOTOGRAPHY
We pride ourselves on personal service in a relaxed atmosphere. For all your Bridal, Bridesmaid, Mothers, Special Occasion, Prom & Tuxedo needs.
17 Main Street, Jaffrey, New Hampshire Jaffrey, NH 03452
www.countrybridals.com We pride ourselves on personal service in a relaxed atmosphere. For all your Bridal, Bridesmaid, Flower Girl, Mothers, Special Occasion, Prom & Tuxedo needs.
We pride ourselves on personal service in a relaxed atmosphere. For all your Bridal, Bridesmaid, Flower Girl, Mothers, Special Occasion, Prom & Tuxedo needs. 17 Main Street, Jaffrey, New Hampshire 603-532-7641
Things We Love
Colorful tablescapes, traditional dresses with a twist, bold contemporary invitation suites, minimalist cakes — these are just some of the things we love.
�
Playful Palette
Unabashed color, bold textures, bright florals, and unique moments of delight combine to encourage fun and create a lively feel. The addition of juicy berries, gold flatware, varied candle holders and simple linens round out the blooming spring tablescape look.
Historic. Charming. Beautiful. Polished concrete floors, whitewashed brick and sleek black ceilings create the perfect backdrop for bold statements. Peach phalaenopsis orchids, terra-cotta zinnias and dahlias, and flame roses, combined with timeless neutrals such as quicksand roses, white hydrangea, and white scabiosa add a touch of loose movement and whimsy to the space. Extra details like a plant wall, hanging lights and ceiling drapes round out the trendy warehouse setting and garden ambiance of The Gardens at the Factory in Manchester. gardensatuncanoonuc.com
PHOTOGRAPHY
Amanda Ibáñez @abanth103
PLANNING AND DESIGN
Nicole Mower Events
@nicolemowerevents
FLORALS/CREATIVE DESIGN
Apotheca Flowers @apothecaflowers
VENUE
Gardens at The Factory @gardensatthefactoryonwillow
VIDEOGRAPHY
The Leighton Co. Photos & Films @theleightonco
STATIONERY
AMR Calligraphy & Design @amrcalligraphy
RENTALS
PEAK Events Services @peakeventservices
LOUNGE
Kadeema Rentals @kadeemarentals
FOOD/DRINK
Peppers Artful Events @peppersartfulevents
COTTON CANDY CART
Chic Cotton Candy @chiccottoncandy
BEAUTY
Salon North
@102salonnorthnh and @alinahdidmyhair
MODELS
Allyson Morin and Matt Blanchette
MODEL FASHION + ACCESSORIES
Madeleine’s Daughter @madeleinesdaughter
�
On-Trend Invitations
Don’t be afraid to add a bold pop of color to your invitations, like this custom suite created by Gus & Ruby Letterpress. Add foil stamping, a belly band and envelope liner, or other custom details, and you’ve got the complete package. gusandruby.com, @gusandrubyletterpress
�
Bridal Blooms
Slip into this enchanting Charlotte dress by Justin Alexander, and become the heroine of your own floral fairytale wedding. The gown features an unlined bodice and square neckline complete with sequins, lace, organza and tulle. Oversized embroidered and sequined floral appliqués kiss the bodice and A-line skirt, making it the perfect silhouette for any plussized shape. justinalexander.com
�
Minimalist
Cakes
These swoon-worthy cakes, which were created by Sarah Lamoureux of Painting with Sugar (left) and Molly House of At Least, There Will Be Cake (below), are inspired by classic modern-minimalist weddings. House’s ethereal and gold design is striking against the cake’s pink marbled effect, and when combined with Lamoureux’s cake’s hand-painted floral details, the final result is modern understated elegance.
Painting with Sugar @paintingwithsugar
At Least, There Will Be Cake @atleasttherewillbecake
PHOTOGRAPHY
Kate Rautenberg
�
Oversized Florals
For the bride looking for a traditional aesthetic turned more modern, the Elise Veil by Alexandra Grecco offers a mantilla-style veil embellished with french corded lace that will draw all guests’ eyes to the bride. alexandragrecco.com
6
Natural Features
Perfect for any wedding, natural features like rattan and bamboo lamps as well as this asymmetrical arbor and greenery by Mountain Roots Farm bring a sense of sustainable style and character to any ceremony setting. Upgrading your wedding lighting is also one of the easiest ways to elevate your wedding design plan.
PHOTOGRAPHY By
Halie @byhalie
LIGHTING
Event Lighting Concepts @eventslightingconcepts
DESIGN By
Emma B @byemmab
� Sheer Appeal
A whimsical and light ball gown, Utopia by Galia Lahav features a trendy sheer, strapless sweetheart neckline corset and pleated skirt with 3D embroidered appliques cascading from the bodice to the hem. Complete the look with matching gloves and capelet. galialahav.com
� Mismatched Dresses
Uniform bridesmaid dresses are out, and more color and variety are in. Not only does giving your friends their choice of attire create a sense of individuality and comfort for them, but it is a unique way for you to incorporate more of your color palette, too.
Photo by Kate Preftakes Photography
A Sophisticated Touch
For the big day, every detail is important, and that includes shoes. These kitten heels in pearl blue romance from Something Bleu feature a vintage-inspired bow, alluring d'Orsay silhouette, pastel floral details and a low heel perfect for dancing the night away. somethingbleushoes.com
Photo by Kate Preftakes Photography
PHOTO BY The Justs Photography
MANDY ISRAEL & WILL TROWBRIDGE
AUGUST 13, 2022
The Details
THE WEDDING DAY IN A WORD: Disco
WEDDING THEME: Black-tie garden party
FAVORITE MOMENT FOR MANDY: Saying “I do” to my best friend in one of our favorite locations.
FAVORITE MOMENT FOR WILL: Seeing all of our friends and family from around the world at my childhood home.
BIGGEST SURPRISE: Our Aunt Judy made a custom wedding cake topper featuring us in our wedding attire with our cats.
IF YOU COULD DO IT ALL OVER AGAIN: We wouldn’t. It was truly the most perfect day.
PIECE OF ADVICE: Have costumes at your wedding reception!
HONEYMOON LOCATION: Bali, Indonesia
FAVORITE HONEYMOON MOMENT: Motor biking around the coastal town of Uluwatu and exploring their beautiful beaches.
RECEPTION & CEREMONY
Private Residence in Peterborough, New Hampshire
FLORIST
Billies and Tilli billiesandtilli.com
CATERING
Samantha Rule
MAKEUP
Sasha Borax sashaborax.net
DRESS SALON
NWLA nwlabridal.com
WEDDING PLANNER
Memorable Events memorableeventsnh.com
RENTALS
Special Events of New England specialeventsofne.com
ALEXANDRA HIGHSMITH & RAYMOND RICHARDS
SEPTEMBER 3, 2022
The Details
THE WEDDING DAY IN A WORD: Flawless WEDDING THEME: Garden Party
FAVORITE MOMENT FOR ALEXANDRA: Seeing all our friends and family in one place.
FAVORITE MOMENT FOR RAYMOND: Putting the ring on it!
BIGGEST SURPRISE: We had perfect weather and all of the flower girls made it down the aisle on their feet.
IF YOU COULD DO IT ALL OVER AGAIN: We wouldn’t! It was perfect. But our favorite thing that we did was write individual notes to each guest to serve as escort cards.
PIECE OF ADVICE: Hire Nicole Mower to plan your wedding.
HONEYMOON LOCATION: Morocco. We traveled to Casablanca, Merzouga, Ourika and Marrakech.
FAVORITE HONEYMOON MOMENT:
Experiencing a rainstorm in the Sahara Desert.
RECEPTION & CEREMONY
Governor John Langdon House Portsmouth
FLORIST
In Bloom Wedding & Events in-bloom.com
CATERING AND CAKE
Mezzanine Catering mezzaninecatering.com
HAIR & MAKEUP
Katie Walsh, KW Glam katiewalshglam.com
WEDDING PLANNER
Nicole Mower Wedding & Events nicolemower.com
RENTALS
Sperry Tents Seacoast sperrytentsseacoast.com and Peak Event Services peakeventsservices.com
MUSIC
Isaiah Bennett @isaiahwbennett
NATALIE LUTI & ANDERSON KEMP
AUGUST
13, 2022
The Details
THE WEDDING DAY IN A WORD: Enchanting
FAVORITE MOMENT FOR NATALIE: Aside from marrying my best friend and partner, one of my favorite moments was at the end of the night for our final dance. All of our friends gathered around us in a circle and sang along while we waltzed the night away, holding each other close.
FAVORITE MOMENT FOR ANDERSON: Honestly, the same moment as Natalie’s favorite moment. Looking around the room at all of our friends was an amazing moment.
BIGGEST SURPRISE: Good fortune — the weather was sublime all weekend long.
IF YOU COULD DO IT ALL OVER AGAIN: Keep dancing the night away!
PIECE OF ADVICE: Plan ahead thoughtfully and carefully — but have fun while doing so — so you can savor every moment of your big day with your new spouse, family and friends.
HONEYMOON LOCATION: Santa Fe, New Mexico
FAVORITE HONEYMOON MOMENT: The food in Santa Fe is unique and rooted in history and local culture. The landscape of Santa Fe was also out of this world!
PHOTOGRAPHY BY Carolina Marles Photography • carolinamarles.net
LEAH DUPUIS & TANNER ROLLINS
AUGUST 20, 2022
The Details
THE WEDDING DAY IN A WORD: Magical WEDDING THEME: Champagne Summer
FAVORITE MOMENT FOR LEAH: Saying our vows.
FAVORITE MOMENT FOR TANNER: Our first dance.
BIGGEST SURPRISE: The whiskey and cigar bar that Tanner’s aunt and uncle surprised us with!
IF YOU COULD DO IT ALL OVER AGAIN: I wouldn’t change any of the details, I would just slow down time.
PIECE OF ADVICE: As far as a backyard wedding goes, let the flow of things happen on their own. There is only so much time during your wedding, and worrying about the exact flow of everything should be the last of your concern. Everything will take a natural course as long as you have a general timeline of your events.
HONEYMOON LOCATION: Palm Beach, Aruba
FAVORITE HONEYMOON MOMENT: Relaxing by the water.
CEREMONY AND RECEPTION
Private Residence in Deerfield, New Hampshire
FLORIST
Illume Floral Studio illume-floral.com
CATERER
Stone Oven Catering Facebook
CAKE
Emily's Cake House Facebook
HAIR & MAKEUP
JW Artistry jw-artistry.com
DRESS SALON
Chantilly Place chantillyplace.net
RENTALS
Special Events of New England specialeventsofne.com
Kate Preftakes Photography
The Design Maven
Q&A
with wedding planner Sorrell Downing
Sorrell Downing has spent the last 25 years perfecting her own schedules and calendars for her family of 11, and she carries the same organizational prowess into her wedding and event planning company, Events by Sorrell. Her signature style and creativity can be seen in her love of timeless details and variety of textures and colors. She uses her expert, compassionate guidance—and in-depth knowledge of New England vendors gathered from planning more than 100 events—to make sure each event is remarkable and unique, and helps each couple create the celebration they have always dreamed of.
Q: How would you describe your design style?
A: Our team leans in heavily to a clean, classic elegance. I am a huge fan of tone-on-tone. I love the BBJ Trouseau linen with an ivory velvet napkin. Add in heirloom dishware and Pure Glassware, silver (or gold) flatware, and you have a lovely classic table setting. Any stationery and floral choices work well with this combination.
Q: What trends are you loving for 2023?
A: The more casual formats for receptions are making me smile— there’s less awkwardness. For example, I had three weddings last year with no formal seating and everyone raved about the format. It was very fun and more focused on the dancing, with no awkward dinner that takes too long with people you don’t know. For a guest count of 100, they had two lounge areas, a huge bar with high-tops and high-top chairs, a big dance floor and traditional tables for about 50 people. I also love the mismatched wedding party. I recommend having your people
“Don’t invite people to your wedding who you would ignore in the grocery store.”
wear flowered clothing or all black, something they are more likely to reuse.
Q:
How can couples up their wow factor for their wedding?
A: For tented weddings, I recommend perimeter and café seating, and perhaps a focal lighting element on the dance floor. Pay a little extra for no band breaks and add a beautiful napkin, charger and water glasses to elevate the whole experience.
Q:
What is the most common mistake that couples make when planning their wedding?
A: Begin with a strong foundation of knowing what the budget is and how many people you will invite. Don’t invite people to your wedding who you would ignore in the grocery store. Don’t choose a venue that is a stretch budget-wise.
Q:
What do you enjoy most about working with engaged couples?
A: I love the excitement that newly engaged couples bring. They are eager to get started, and the creative energy is really fun to lean in to.
Q: What are the most important vendors to book, and in what order?
A: Start with a planner, as they help you make good decisions on your vendor team. Next, add a photographer because at the end of the day, the photos and memories are what you keep. Then, a venue. Make sure to choose a venue that feels like you. If you are an outdoorsy type who wants your guests to dance barefoot, don’t choose a formal venue and vice versa. Choose a florist after that if flowers are a priority—if not, replace with stationary. Last but not least, it would be to include your band, rentals (remember that not everything you see on Pinterest is available here in New England), stationary and hair and makeup.
eventsbysorrell.com
PHOTOGRAPHY
The Moment Maker
Q&A
with
wedding photographer Kate Preftakes
Kate Preftakes is all about the details. As a fine art wedding photographer, Preftakes loves documenting the unique moments and the raw, candid shots that tell the story of every couples’ big day. Her personal philosophy is that marriage is greater than the wedding day, and she creates images of life and love in an authentic way to reflect it. With each click of the shutter, she strives to create timeless photos that will never go out of style and be passed down through generations to come.
Q: What is your unique style of photography?
A: My approach is both editorial and artistic. My intent with every wedding that I photograph is to create timeless imagery that is classic and will stand the test of time. I believe that the details of the day are just as important as the portraits, and I want my images to be effortlessly natural and artfully crafted.
Q: How many hours of coverage do you provide?
A: Most of my weddings require 8-9 hours of photography to effectively cover the day. I typically begin photographing the wedding four hours prior to the ceremony in order to get those beautiful getting-ready shots and portraits. Unless there is a big send-off of some kind, I do not need to stay until the end of the reception.
Q: What are the benefits of doing a “first look” for photos?
A: While I never insist that my couples do a first look, I do highly
“There are many talented photographers out there, but I think it’s important to really take the time and make sure you have a good connection with your photographer as a person. ”
recommend it! It is a great way to get portraits done prior to the ceremony so that you have more time to spend at your cocktail hour and reception with your guests. It is also a very special moment to see each other (with perfectly fresh hair and makeup) in a private location, and have a chance to connect while being unobtrusively photographed. I’ve heard many brides say that seeing each other helped eliminate any wedding-day jitters too!
Q: Do you shoot your photos in digital or film?
A: Both! I am a hybrid shooter, and I love combining the looks of both film and digital to capture the wedding day. Film is dreamy, and I use it for mainly portraits and details. Digital gives me more flexibility with
lower light situations. Fortunately, it is possible to match the look of film so the entire collection is cohesive and gorgeous.
Q: Any final advice for the engaged couple?
A: There are many talented photographers out there, but I think it’s important to really take the time and make sure you have a good connection with your photographer as a person. They will be there with you for a large part of the day, and having trust and feeling comfortable with that person will make all the difference. Once you have made your choice, trust them as an artist and give them the freedom to create the images that you fell in love with initially.
preftakesphoto.com
PHOTOGRAPHY BY
Kate Preftakes Photography
The Bloom Buff
Q&A
with florist Emily Herzig
From Boston to Bar Harbor and everywhere in between, Emily Herzig’s floral designs have decorated weddings and events throughout New England. Herzig and her team work out of her studio in Littleton, creating distinctive bouquets and floral works of art from fresh seasonal flowers. Her signature style is as unique as her personality, expressing life’s beauty through floral design.
“If you have a favorite flower or memory of flowers in your life, it’s great to have those flowers in season for your wedding.”
Q: What do you love most about what you do? What inspires you?
A: In my work, I am most inspired by the couples and families that I work with. I hear stories about family traditions and get to consider the meaning and value of relationships. Of course nature, the woods, wildflower fields, manicured gardens, architecture, Dutch Master paintings, the changing of the seasons, and all of those things inspire me, but at a deeper level, I really am most inspired by the people I work with and constant creative challenges they give to me.
Q: How would you describe your design style?
A: I describe my design style as “garden inspired” and “artistic.” I hear people say that they see my work and can recognize it right away, so “distinct” and “personal” are also in there.
The design work I do for weddings and events is created with a purpose to convey specific feelings and express meanings, so I also describe my style as poetic, romantic and emotional.
Q: When should couples start thinking about florals?
A: In my opinion, flowers should be one of the first things a couple thinks about when they are planning their wedding. If you have a favorite flower or memory of flowers in your life, it’s great to have those flowers in season for your wedding. Flowers are also a big part of a wedding budget, so you should consider that as you are deciding how many attendants you want in your bridal party and how many guests you are going to invite. Depending on the size of your wedding and how big your floral budget and flower dreams are, it makes sense to secure your floral vendor eight months to a year prior to your wedding day.
Q: Do you have a favorite type of arrangement?
A: My favorite designs are wild, organic installations and lush garden-inspired table centerpieces. I love compote-style containers, trailing foraged vines, and flowers that hang from the ceiling or look like they are
growing up from the ground. I like trying to figure out how I’m going to implement an idea when I’m writing floral contracts.
Q: Which flowers would you recommend based on time of year/season, color palette and budget?
A: Regardless of budget, consider the season and place you are getting married. Look for a florist who works closely with local flower farmers or someone who grows their own flowers. Save money by choosing flowers that can be sourced from within the region you are getting married. I have worked closely with local flower farmers for years, and we are building our own cutting gardens at our farm, Granite View Gardens, in Vermont. We go to great lengths to follow sustainable design practices. Also, there is nothing better than a garden full of your wedding flowers someday, not just a cut bouquet from your local florist, although that is great too! In general, and by season, I recommend evergreens, paperwhite, citrus and mimosa for winter, and tulips, hyacinth, anemone and ranunculus for spring. For summer, I suggest dahlias, zinnias, cosmos, garden roses and crabapples. And for fall, go with dahlias, wild grasses and pods, oak and maple branches. ehfloral.com
PHOTOGRAPHY BY Kate Preftakes Photography, Jackie Fox Photography, and The Gowans Photography
The Confection Creator
Q&A
with cake artist Jaime Melfi
It’s based in the small North Country town of Jackson, but Autumn Nomad’s reputation for cake artistry has spread worldwide—and that’s just after six years in business. The company’s owner and cake artist—Jaime Melfi—is the reason why. Bringing years of knowledge on food styling, floral design and a background in baking and fine arts to the table, she leads her team in creating custom-designed, artistic, out-of-the box cake designs and desserts. From crumb to creation, their goal is that each couple has their own one-of-a-kind edible art as the centerpiece for their special day.
“I personally think couples should reach out to their desired baker as soon as they pick a date, book a venue and have a guest count. ”
Q: What inspires your creative process?
A: Nature, art, traveling and food have always been my biggest inspirations. From a young age, the world was always very intriguing to me. We’re all inspired by each other, in some sort of way, and then we create a piece of art in some sort of way. Whether it’s a composed dish, cocktail, an oil painting or a piece of pottery, art is universal. It’s so interesting seeing styles develop over the years as other artists create their own spin, and then continue to inspire others to make art of their own.
It’s exciting for me when I have the opportunity to spend enough time in another part of the country or world that it feels like I live there. With work, I don’t get to do that too often anymore, but I then watch a lot of travel
and food shows where I can learn more about different cultures. I love bringing those elements of the world into my cooking or cake designs.
Q: Describe your baking and confectionery aesthetic.
A: Bohemian, artistic and eclectic.
Q: When should couples start thinking about their cake?
A: Planning a wedding is a really exciting time. I personally think couples should reach out to their desired baker as soon as they pick a date, book a venue and have a guest count. We can’t take on an event without that information. From there, I would recommend trying to develop the order they want, whether it be desserts or a cake, or a combination.
That way your baker has an idea of the size of your order, and you have an idea of your budget with that vendor. However, I do think sometimes if our clients are not naturally decisive, I wouldn’t suggest picking something too far out. Six months before is usually when most things are totally picked out in terms of the full event. I’ve had clients spend a lot of time picking out things for their weddings very far out and then have to make huge changes.
Q: Is there a particular cake trend that you are loving right now or a particular style of cake that you love creating?
A: I love the look of potteryinspired cakes. Very natural, lots of texture, artistic and finished with dried florals. A lot of cake artists are using actual clay tools to manipulate the fondant.
Q: What wedding cake flavors do you recommend?
A: When choosing a cake flavor, I recommend to my couples that
PHOTOGRAPHY
BY Courtney Elizabeth Media, Emily Delameter Photography, and Lindsay Hackney Photography
they not think of what their guests would like but pick what THEY want. Just the other day, I had a groom purposely not pick his favorite flavor because he didn’t think it was going to be a crowd pleaser. I said, “No! You need to have your favorite cake on your wedding day!” So, I suggested doing just the top tier so he has it, and he was very happy.
A:Q:What are your most popular flavors?
We have a few! Chocolate blackberry espresso is chocolate cake, soaked with an espresso ganache, filled with blackberry sauce and espresso buttercream. Chocolate salted caramel is another favorite, which is chocolate cake, soaked with espresso ganache and our own caramel, filled with salted caramel buttercream. Last but not least is london fog—an earl grey cake, drizzled with honey and filled with vanilla bean mascarpone, and lemon blueberry—and a lemon cake, filled with blueberry sauce and lemon buttercream. autumnnomad.com
The Dress Whisperer
Q&A
with Madeleine’s Daughter team member Lindsay Feeney
A bridal favorite on the Seacoast since 1975, Madeleine’s Daughter in Portsmouth offers a curated collection of wedding attire and a sisterhood that will last a lifetime. The bridal boutique believes that finding “the dress” should be an experience, not a decision. From the comfortable atmosphere to the variety of personalized appointment options including a new luxurious collaboration with Seacoast Picnic, each team member goes above and beyond to make sure that each of their MD brides feel cared for as they say “yes to their dress.”
Q: What bridal trends are you seeing for 2023?
A: Our 2023 trend forecast is one of our most exciting to date. We are seeing a lot of prominent bow details, whether a hair accessory or detachable element to the gown, as well as pops of intentional color, whether it is in the gown itself, an embroidered veil, or within florals.
Q: How far in advance should a bride make an appointment?
A: Ideally, a bride will shop for their wedding dress 9-12 months prior to their wedding. This timeline allows brides to have all of their options available to them while shopping and schedule their alterations without feeling rushed. When you’re ready to book your appointment, know that coveted night and weekend appointments tend to book 2-4 weeks in advance at bridal salons, while weekdays will have more availability and may even offer a more relaxed appointment experience.
Q: How do you select your designers?
A: When our buyers add new designers to our collection, we consider lines our brides have mentioned to us in their appointments, as well as designers who could fill a specific need in our inventory, whether that be aesthetic, price point or both. Whether or not that designer lands a spot in our closet will depend on our expert evaluation of their collection’s overall fabric quality, fit construction and ability for our clients to easily alter. We make an effort to see designers we are interested in when we attend bridal market, that way we can see and feel the designs in person!
Q: What should a bride anticipate as far as sizing?
A: Most bridal shops have one sample of each gown, meaning that there is one size available to try on. It’s very rare for a bride to try on gowns at a salon and have them fit.
Be prepared for your stylist to use professional methods, whether clips, modesty fabric, etc., to help you envision what this gown would look like on you in a more accurate size. Traditionally, bridal sizing runs much smaller than ready-to-wear, so a street size 8 could fit perfectly into a 12.
“If you feel like the best version of yourself, you can envision this gown at your venue and you don’t even want to take it off—you’ve found it!”
Q: How does a bride know if they have found “the one”?
A: Some brides burst into tears when they find their gown,
PHOTOGRAPHY Courtesy of Madeleine’s Daughter
and some have a calm knowing that they have found their dream dress. Don’t have any expectations on what this moment looks like to you, and instead focus on the feeling. If you feel like the best version of yourself, you can envision this gown at your venue and you don’t even want to take it off—you’ve found it!
Q: What is your favorite part of a bridal appointment?
A: For us, there are two parts of the bridal appointment that we cherish. The first is hearing about our brides’ unique love story with their partner, and the vision they both have for their wedding. The second is the moment where the bride sees herself in “the dress” for the first time. This is what we call our #MadeleinesDaughterMoment, and it is a memory the bride and stylist never forget. madeleinesdaughter.com
Luxury in Full
Bloom
An intimate garden party reimagined
What could be more idyllic than hosting an intimate affair at a historic property originally built as a wedding gift? Surrounded by 200 acres of White Mountain National Forest, the Adair Inn features a picturesque “white garden” that combines New England charm and luxury wedding elegance. Emma Bogardus of By Emma B thoughtfully assembled a team of local New Hampshire vendors to preserve its long-treasured history while creating a bespoke micro-wedding design for today’s modern bride.
Written by: Kayla Hollatz Mitchell
Creative direction and design: By Emma B
Photography: Kelsey Converse Photography
For centuries, garden parties have been a staple for distinguished guests. Rich in history, the Adair Inn features a sprawling perennial garden designed by the Olmsted Brothers, nationally renowned landscape architects. Following a modern chic palette of white, black and dark lime green, Emma and her team transformed the lush garden into a formal reception with great visual impact.
To make the longer table feel more intimate, three gorgeous black chandeliers from Rentals by EB shined from above, providing an aura of light throughout the evening. Climbing smilax vines were woven into the chandelier posts, making it look as if the chandeliers were growing out of the garden. Every refined detail was chosen with cohesion in mind.
Locally sourced blooms from New England and imported florals—such as orchids and anthuriums—ensure every element of the floral design is intentionally curated. In lieu of a traditional arbor, florist Allyson Rand of Clementina Florals envisioned a gold-pillared display of white-accented florals against the forest of greenery. “We wanted to honor the native plants while adding something unexpected,” says Rand.
The florals were styled organically to accent the White Mountain setting and to seamlessly blend into the garden. From the beautiful ceremony space to the daintier bridal bouquets, the florals were the standout element of this luxurious, intimate wedding.
Timeless in nature, the breathtaking tablescape is distinguished by its unique black undertones and classic design. Selected as the show-stopping base, the floral-patterned table linens from BBJ La Tavola were the perfect backdrop for votive candles, white chargers and velvet beige napkins.
“Every element must shine in its own light,” says Bogardus. Delicate white orchids, accompanied by a handselected variety of white florals, were repurposed from the ceremony pillars and aisle for a seamless transition into the reception space.
Crafted from elegant Mikado silk, the Camelia dress from designer Barbara Kavchok has a whimsical flair of delicate beauty. This ivory fit-and-flare gown features textured ruffles with frayed edges all around the flared hemline. “The movement of the ruffles fit the movement of the garden,” says Bogardus. Its ruffled sleeves can be draped off the shoulders for a relaxed look or worn on the shoulders for a more formal affair. Paired with minimal yet sophisticated gold accessories handmade by Sinead Cleary, the bride looks effortlessly chic with a romantic updo recommended by hair and makeup artist Sarah of the Hopcraft Collective team.
Arrive at the cocktail hour in style and delight guests with an unexpected gown change. Inspired by the playful events to come, the bride’s natural white reception dress from Dalliance Gown Rentals has a fitted bodice and ruched slit. The groom’s attire features slim black dress pants, suit jacket and a stand-out bowtie from The Black Tux. Button clips and on-trend black loafers complete the look.
Dressed to impress, it’s time to enjoy a sweet treat from Super Secret Ice Cream and toast to forever with a stylish champagne wall. “It’s all about curating a unique experience for the couple,” says photographer Kelsey Converse.
Sitting atop textured white linens, two artistically crafted cakes draw the eye toward the table’s centerpiece. Using advanced baking techniques, Henny Bogardus of Henny B Cakes created cakes with hand-dusted florals made completely out of sugar. Easily mistaken for real flowers, these botanic-inspired cakes shine a light on the all-important tradition of a formal multi-tiered cake. Matching the dark lime green shade of the reception table’s candles, this cake gives the space its own “big green moment.”
Cap off the night with an unforgettable grand exit in a classic sports car. As if the evening couldn’t get more thrilling, this sleek black Cobra gave the couple an extra dose of adrenaline. To preserve the bride’s fragile bouquet, a delicate bouquet of petite posy—made with Phalaenopsis orchids and locally grown white cupcake cosmos, hostas and white zinnias—took its place. As the evening came to a close, the groom was all smiles as he settled into the driver’s seat, his glowing bride by his side. She raised her flowers triumphantly in the air as they blissfully drove off into the sunset.
PLANNING AND DESIGN
By Emma B byemmab.com @byemmab
RENTALS
Rentals by EB byemmab.com @rentalsbyeb
Party Rental Ltd. partyrentalltd.com @partyrentalsltd
67 Pleasant View Rd., Bradford 603-938-5253, rosewoodcountryinn.com
Capacity: 60
LAKES REGION
The Barn at Moody Mountain Farm
100 Pork Hill Rd., Wolfeboro
603-498-2618, moodymountainfarm.com
Capacity: 150
191 W River Road, Hooksett 603-340-8361
Email for more information: info@oscarbarnweddingvenue.com www.oscarbarnweddingvenue.com
Overlooking picturesque Hip Peas Farm and the scenic Merrimack River, our intimate venue is the ideal destination for couples seeking that rustic, yet elegant style wedding full of relaxation, inspiration and bliss.
Oscar Barn Wedding Venue located on Hip Peas Farm with it’s historic farmhouse is family owned and offers wedding packages with accommodations for up to 16 guests.
Panoramic river and horse pasture views, colorful flowering greenhouses, and crop landscape can be utilized for outdoor receptions and events.
Centrally located, just a few minutes off I 93, and a short drive from the Manchester/Boston Airport.
The Barn on the Pemi
341 Daniel Webster Hwy., Plymouth 603-536-3515, thebarnonthepemi.com
Capacity: 300
Belknap Mill
25 Beacon St. East, Laconia 603-524-8813, belknapmill.org
166 Waukewan Rd., Center Harbor 603-677-2649, waukewangolfclub.com
Capacity: 175
Whiteface Hollow
251 Hackett Hill Rd., South Tamworth 603-409-7028, whitefacehollow.com
Capacity: 240
Built in 1914 this Arts and Crafts mountaintop escape features a heavenly framework that encompasses the art of living in harmony with nature. Breathtaking gardens filled with bright flowers, lush pastures, exposed stone, sweeping views of Lake Winnipesaukee and its surrounding mountains, and country free charm create the perfect setting for your dreamy wedding in the sky.
Contact our wedding team to s tart planning your perfect wedding in the clouds!
Email us at weddings@castleintheclouds.org
Visit Our Website www.castleintheclouds.org
Photography by Thalia Catheryn Photography
Venues |
Wolfeboro Inn/The Winnipesaukee Belle
90 North Main St., Wolfeboro 603-569-3016, winnipesaukeebelle.com
Capacity: up to 150
MERRIMACK
VALLEY
Alpine Grove Banquet Facility 19 South Depot Rd., Route 111A, Hollis 603-882-9051, alpinegrove.com
Capacity: 100–600
Atkinson Resort & Country Club 85 Country Club Dr., Atkinson 603-362-8700, atkinsonresort.com
Capacity: 400
Aviation Museum of New Hampshire 27 Navigator Rd., Londonderry 603-669-4820, aviationmuseumofnh.org
Capacity: 120 seated; 150 standing
The Barn at Bull Meadow 63 Bog Rd., Concord 603-301-5121, barnatbullmeadow.com
“Your goal is to enjoy your special day. Let us handle the details.” Celebrations Catering is a premier caterer across southern New Hampshire and wedding or event, beginning to end. On top of offering catering and licensed bar services, we can also provide additional assistance on other areas such as entertainment, décor, equipment rentals, and more. Celebrations Catering has earned an exceptional reputation for quality and services from our loyal and happy customers in the past 25 years.
Wentworth by the Sea 588 Wentworth Rd., New Castle 603-422-7322, marriott.com/hotels/travel/ psmww-wentworth-by-the-sea-a-marriotthotel-and-spa/ Capacity: 500
Wentworth by the Sea Country Club 60 Wentworth Rd., Rye 603-433-3050, wentworthbytheseacc.com Capacity: 250
Zorvino Vineyards
226 Main St., Sandown 603-887-8463, zorvino.com Capacity: 200
WHITE MOUNTAINS
Bellevue Barn at Carlisle Place 685 Presidential Hwy., Jefferson 603-586-6046, bellevuebarnatcarlisleplace.net Capacity: 250
Best Western White Mountain Inn 87 Wallace Hill Rd., Franconia 603-823-7422, bestwesternnh.com Capacity: 225
Christmas Farm Inn & Spa 3 Blitzen Way, Jackson 603-383-4313, christmasfarminn.com Capacity: 175
Submit a sketch of changes to an existing Gabriel & Co. ring or a completely customized ring through Bellman Jewelers.
Receive a virtual 3D recreation of the sketch with the ability to change the gold color. Download the Gabriel Magic app to view the virtual ring.
Receive a wax replica of the ring that you are allowed to keep and this is where you can make any final changes. Receive your finished product, knowing it is the perfect dream ring that you will cherish forever and ever.
Eagle Mountain House
179 Carter Notch Rd., Jackson 603-383-9111, eaglemt.com
Capacity: 50 indoors; 300 outdoors
Indian Head Resort
664 US Route 3, Lincoln 888-343-8000, indianheadresort.com
Capacity: 160
The Inn at Jackson 12 Main St., Jackson 603-383-4321, innatjackson.com
135 Main St., North Woodstock 603-745-3951, woodstockinnnh.com
Capacity: 200
Who Loves aN UNCommon Wedding? I Do!
Hosted at Our Unique Venues Across NH or Catered at Your Special Place
The Common Man Family offers a variety of venues to perfectly suit your wedding celebration... a cozy Nest at Common Man Ashland, renovated Birch and Foster’s halls at our Inn in Plymouth, event spaces at Common Man Windham and Common Man Concord, a river-side ballroom at our Inn in Claremont, and The Barn on the Pemi, our restored 1860s event barn and ceremony greenhouse in Plymouth.
Planning a wedding at your place, in a meadow, at the lake? Our planners and chefs are happy to create a menu that best suits your needs and whims. Our professional event staff and chefs seamlessly transport, prepare, serve and tidy up.
Ashland — The Nest at The Common Man Restaurant
Claremont — The Common Man Inn & Restaurant
Concord — The Common Man Restaurant
Lakes Region — Lakehouse Boutique Catering
Plymouth — The Barn on the Pemi & Tiny Cabins
The Common Man Inn & Spa / The Lodge
Windham — The Common Man Restaurant
Photo credits: Cassie Steele, Beloved Photography; Michael Cirelli Photography; Will & D Photography; A Photographic Memory; Ends of the Earth Innovations; Mobile Video & Photography; Mosaic Photography.
WEDDING GALLERY
Pyrotecnico
Pyrotecnico is a professional fireworks display company producing memorable events throughout the country. Each display is custom designed to meet the features of the venue and the audience. Whether the fireworks are being fired from land or water, on one of our mini barges, Pyrotecnico will create a spectacular display that your guests will remember for years to come!
603-532-8324 • pyrotecnico.com
See our ad on inside front cover
Hobbs Tavern & Brewing Company
An idyllic countryside brewpub offering warmth, history, classic comfort food and handcrafted beer at the foot of the White Mountains. Built in 1885, the original suspension barn maintains its historic charm with beautiful, exposed pine post & beam and sprawling stone fireplace, with modern touches. Brew your own wedding beer in our Tavern brewhouse for an added distinctive experience.
2415 White Mountain Hwy., West Ossipee, NH 603-539-2000 • hobbsbeer.com
The Derryfield
Inside or outdoors, The Derryfield offers a beautiful, tranquil setting for your wedding day, right here in Manchester, NH. Our beautiful ballroom is the ideal location for wedding showers and elegant wedding receptions with the ability to accommodate as many as 200 guests. Let our event planners take the stress out of the planning process so that you can enjoy a day you’ll never forget.
603-623-2880 • thederryfield.com/banquet-facility
See our ad on page 11
Nashua Country Club
From the moment you step onto the property, you will be welcomed by our professional team of experts that are eager to ensure your every desire is met. Only one event per day is held in our Grand Ballroom to ensure that you receive the first-class service that you deserve. Remember, you don’t have to be a member of the Nashua Country Club to be treated like one. Pleased to host events up to 220, 180 with a dance floor. Wedding showers and rehearsal dinners, too!
25 Fairway St., Nashua, NH • 603-888-0121 nashuacountryclub.com • See our ad on page 3
WEDDING GALLERY
Owl’s
Nestled in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, you will find Owl’s Nest Resort. Owl’s Nest is surrounded by breathtaking mountain range views, luxurious accommodations, 18-hole golf course, large man-made lake with lake activities and much more. Choose from either our Sunset Pavilion or LakeHouse venues. Both locations boast outdoor ceremony spaces, gourmet cuisine, attentive staff and a bevy of photo opportunities. Owl’s Nest Resort is the perfect location for your White Mountain destination wedding.
40 Clubhouse Ln., Thornton, NH • owlsnestresort.com @owlsnestresortevents • See our ad on page 22
Events at the Andover Barn are managed by Sheryl Proulx, who has more than 15 years of experience in event management. Sheryl has coordinated over 250 weddings and events. Sheryl and her event coordinating team are delighted to guide you in the planning of your wedding or event by personalizing it for you, your family and guests. The Andover Barn offers a new three room Bridal Suite and 6 guest rooms in the adjacent Highland Lake Inn. Our goal is to make your day the perfect day!
603-748-9796 • events@nhweddingbarn.com
Sheryl and her team are happy to assist in coordinating your vendors. See our ad on page 33
Seacoast Science Center
Located on the rocky coast in Odiorne Point State Park, Seacoast Science Center’s extensive oceanfront views include lighthouses, the Piscataqua River and the Isles of Shoals, providing a beautiful setting for your celebration and perfect backdrop for amazing photographs. The 40-feetby-90-feet tent is ideal for your reception, from a formal banquet to a fun lobster bake. Guests also enjoy indoor exhibits. Your rental supports SSC’s mission to inspire conservation of our Blue Planet.
In Odiorne Point State Park Rte. 1A, 570 Ocean Blvd., Rye, NH • 603-436-8043 seacoastsciencecenter.org • rentals-events@sscnh.org
Wingate Salon & Spa
Hair | Makeup | Memories. We are an award-winning salon and spa. We can cater to your everyday salon and spa needs. Our private event suite will accomodate your spa party or group, wedding day, showers, bachelorette parties and more. Memories are made at the Wingate! 139 Portsmouth Ave., Stratham, NH • 603-772-8400 parties@wingatespa.com • wingatespa.com
PHOTO BY TARA PHOTOGRAPHY.COM
Nest Resort
Andover Barn
WEDDING GALLERY
Manchester Country Club
The perfect backdrop for your special day, we invite you to learn how our modern Great Room and outdoor space can be your unique wedding destination. Love is for everyone; membership is not required to host your wedding with us.
Bedford, NH • 603-624-4096
manchestercountryclub.com
See our ad on inside back cover
Bellman’s Jewelers
At Bellman’s Jewelers, we specialize in custom wedding bands and engagement rings. These bands are just an example of the pieces we have helped customers create! If you dream it, we will create it! Using our Cad software and 3D printing capabilities, we will make sure the ring is perfect for you.
1650 Elm St. • Manchester, NH • 603-625-4653 bellmans.com • See our ad on page 69
BY
Castle in the Clouds
Perched high on a mountaintop, Castle in the Clouds is the perfect enchanted storybook setting for your wedding. Join us as we transport your guests via vintage trolley from garden ceremony to terrace cocktails followed by a reception with grand views of Lake Winnipesaukee.
455 Old Mountain Rd., Moultonborough, NH
603-476-5900 • castleintheclouds.org • See our ad on page 59
Currier Museum of Art
An artistic, elegant and world-class backdrop for your special day. Your guests can explore the galleries during cocktail hour and then dance the night away in the Winter Garden. Schedule a bridal tour today!
Family owned since 1914, Day’s Jewelers has been part of some amazing love stories. With each customer, we are reminded of the importance of every piece of jewelry we sell. Wedding bands are a big part of the those love stories and a symbol of eternity, with no beginning or end. Like your eternal promise to your spouse, we promise to exceed your expectations and strive to be your family jeweler for generations to come.
66 March Ave., Manchester, 603-641-8232 • 567 Amherst St., Nashua 603-324-5200 • daysjewelers.com • See our ad on page 2
Mountain View Grand Resort and Spa
Located on 1,700 acres in the White Mountains of NH, Mountain View Grand offers the grandeur of a great historic hotel. Founded in 1865, the resort is a premier destination for elegant four-season weddings. Featuring 141 graciously appointed rooms and suites and a choice of tasteful and luxurious venues for your wedding and reception. AAA Four Diamond since 2008 and a member of Historic Hotels of America.
Whitefield, NH • 844-602-4907
mountainviewgrand.com
• See our ad on the back cover
The Margate Resort
The Margate Resort is a premier resort located on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee. All of your wedding needs at one location: ceremony, reception, guest rooms. Many options are available for your special day. Inside: Grand Ballroom, Mariah Room overlooking the lake. Outside: Our new venue The Lakeside Pavilion, West Lawn, or directly on the beach. Consider an after-hours pool party, fireworks or a campfire on the beach! You will receive the best personalized service from start to finish. The Margate, where beautiful memories begin.
76 Lake St., Laconia, NH 03246 1-800-MARGATE • themargate.com
Newfound Lake Inn
Newfound Lake Inn has been welcoming travelers since 1840 as an overnight stop on the stage-coach route from Boston to Montreal. A perfect venue for destination weddings, outside in our extensive gardens or inside the newly renovated barn accommodating up to 200 guests. Only two hours from the Boston airport, the Newfound area is one of the premier, fourseason vacation spots in New Hampshire.
1030 Mayhew Tpke., Bridgewater, NH • 603-744-3894
newfoundlake.com • See our ad on page 63
WEDDING GALLERY
Fortin Gage
Fortin Gage Flower and Gift shop, established in 1931, serves Nashua, NH, and neighboring communities. We are an award-winning floral design team that will bring your best-day-ever vision to life.
86 West Pearl St., Nashua, NH • 603-882-3371
fortingage.com
• See our ad on page 32
Omni Mount Washington Resort
Dreaming of the perfect fairy-tale wedding? At the Omni Mount Washington Resort, you’ll find everything you need to make it so. Breathtaking scenery. Stunning ballrooms. Inspiring outdoor settings. Now open for milestone events, be among the first to say “I do” at the new Crystal Hills event venue, high atop the slopes of Bretton Woods and serviced by the state’s only eightpassenger gondola. Whether you envision an elegant outdoor ceremony, framed by the beautiful White Mountain National Forest, or a formal indoor affair, we’ll help you find the ideal setting to fit your unique style.
310 Mt. Washington Hotel Rd., Bretton Woods, NH • 603-278-8813 omnihotels.com/mountwashington • See our ad on page 1
Rek’-Lis Brewing Co.
If you enjoy craft beer and breweries, then think outside of the box for your next special occasion and go Rek-Lis for your next event! There’s no better location than The Pint House at Rek-Lis Brewing Company. Whether enjoying our backyard and its warm vintage lights or our 360 degree bar and one of a kind murals; the team at Rek-Lis can help make your event one of a kind throughout our modern, yet classic, Pint House. We hope we have the opportunity to make your next event Rek-Lis! Make an inquiry to have your next event with us today!
2085 Main Street, Bethlehem, NH • 603-991-2357 events@reklisbrewing.com • reklisbrewing.com
See our ad on page 9
Averill House Vineyard
There’s no better location to celebrate a special occasion than our rustic and charming venue. Wheather enjoying our outside or indoor venue, the Averill House team can help make your event one of a kind throughout our picturesqe vineyard and 1830’s building. We hope we have the opportunity to provide you with a lifetime of memories. Make an inquiry to book an appointment to start planning today!
We got in touch with the couples featured in Real Weddings in previous years and asked them to tell us about the biggest thing that's happened since their wedding day ...
July 10, 2021
Chloe Anderson & Robert Kelland
"We finally got to go on our dream honeymoon to Italy in 2022. It was amazing!”
August 29, 2021
Mikayla Foster & Scott Merrick
"We returned to the Omni Mt. Washington Hotel on the weekend of our first wedding anniversary, where we found out that we are pregnant and will be expecting in May 2023.”
July 31, 2021
Rachel Kopp & Ryan Barry
“We have enjoyed spending lots of time with family and friends, and we are especially excited to welcome a baby in August!”
Your Wedding, Our Venue
Manchester Country Club
We’ve been celebrating the greatest love stories since we opened our doors in 1923. It’s easy to say we care about your wedding being the most special day of your life.
With space to accommodate up to 260 guests, we host only one wedding at a time so we can focus entirely on you. Our place is yours, and you decide when you’d like your six-hour reception to begin.
Celebrating 100 Years of the Greatest Love Stories #lovesince1923
LOVE IS FOR EVERYONE; MEMBERSHIP IS NOT REQUIRED TO HOST YOUR WEDDING HERE.
